Gallen debuted aged 19 in 2001 and has gone on to become one of the greatest forwards of the modern game.

His rise has not been without controversy with the Sharks prop a decisive figure among fans, especially those north of the border who are sure to give him a warm welcome.

But his toughness could never be questioned with the former Blues captain, who turns 36 next week, churning out match stats many younger counterparts could only dream of.

And he has fan in Bennett who said Gallen had all the attributes of a champion player.

“I have always admired him. He’s tough and uncompromising,” Bennett said of Gallen.

“He’s made plenty of enemies and friends along the way; that’s what a good forward is all about.

"I am sure they will lift for him.”

The Sharks welcome back James Maloney for the Suncorp Stadium blockbuster with the No.6 rushed back into the side after breaking his wrist just a few weeks ago.

However, Broncos recruit Jack Bird will not take to the field due to a shoulder injury in a massive loss to the defending premiers.

Reports have surfaced Bird may backflip on his four-year $3.5 million Brisbane deal, however, Bennett said his star signing would be at Red Hill in 2018.

"We have had no doubt at this club (that Bird is coming to the club),” Bennett said.

“It’s just rumour and innuendo.

“Anything to do with the Broncos it gets a bigger headline than anything else.

“It just comes with the territory unfortunately.

"Jack Bird is coming to the Broncos — full stop.”